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GMC Envoy XL

As sport utility vehicles became popular, the GMC Envoy XL quickly became a good choice for those looking for a midsize SUV. Not only are these vehicles known as reliable family and passenger options, but they are also often used as delivery and company vehicles. With the Envoy XL, GMC created an SUV to compete with the Ford Expedition and Toyota Sidekick, among others.

A person only has to look for a moment to see how fast the automobile industry boomed in the first part of the 1900s. That era shows a great deal of initiative from some of the time's leading engineers and businessmen. This is certainly the case with the General Motors Corporation, or GMC. GMC had its beginnings in 1892 when R.E. Olds took over his father's naval and industrial engine plant and made the decision to convert it to an automotive production plant.It took a few years of hard work to finally manufacture the first car, but it turns out that attention to detail was crucial to the future of the company.

Over the years, General Motors has become a giant among the automotive manufacturers and is now the parent company to many of the world's most well-known car makers. Saab, Saturn, and Buick are just a few of thebrands under the GMC name.GMC can also claim Hummer and Chevrolet.In hard economic times, these mergers have meant the continuation of these companies and their products. Plenty of cars and trucks are still made with the familiar GMC logo and name, including the popular Envoy XL.

About the GMC Envoy XL

The Envoy XL is known for its spacious seven-seat interior design. The cabin design provides optimum comfort for the driver and passengers, though there have been some claims that the materials used in the construction are a bit cheap.Overall, the interior can boast a clean look and feel.In addition to plenty of space for seven passengers, the GMC Envoy XLoffers plenty of cargo space as well.

This SUV provides plenty of power under the hood. These vehicles come equipped with either a six- or eight-cylinder engine.Some industry experts have suggested that the Envoy XL is less than perfect at turning corners smoothly, and its steering isn't as tight as it could be, though all and all, the Envoy XL is considered a good choice.

GMC Envoy XL Features

GMC decided to end the Envoy XL edition in the 2007 model year. The company continued to produce traditional Envoy models until 2009, however. Much like the earlier versions of the Envoy XL, the 2007 edition has plenty of features to appeal to the growing consumer base of SUV buyers. One of the biggest draws of the 2007 Envoy XL is its cabin space. It's not uncommon for midsize SUVs to lack a bit in the space department.Fortunately, the Envoy XL really does offer adequate space for seven adults with plenty of head and leg room. The model also provides sufficient cargo space in the cabin.

Thankfully, General Motors makes every attempt to provide its midsize SUV with sufficient power as well. These vehicles come with the buyer's choice of aninline-six engine or a 5.3-liter V-8 motor.GMC also engineers transmission systems that can stand up to the wear and tear that these vehicles undergo. Solid frame construction adds another benefit to the 2007 Envoy XL. It performs well on most safety tests and provides a good choice for a family vehicle.

GMC Envoy XL Evolution

GMC offered the first generation of the Envoy XL from 1998 to 2000. Interestingly enough, GMC chose not to offer a 2001 model at all, but then continued producing the SUV in 2002. In the first generation, consumers came to expect vehicles much like the GMC Jimmy, except with more bells and whistles. This generation did not wow the public. Critics often cite soft steering and an outdated chassis and V-6 engine as reasons for their disapproval. Many drivers are less than pleased with the braking system as well.

The second generation of the Envoy XL was better received by the public and industry experts as well. This generation was available from 2002 to 2007, after which General Motors discontinued the XL line. The second generation Envoy XL shows off a wider frame and chassis and expanded the interior cabin area. Some models also offer rear air suspension. This system is ideal for leveling out heavy loads and providing a safer and smoother ride when the vehicle hauls heavy or awkward loads. For those looking for a midsize SUV, the Envoy XL is often a popular choice due to its large size and updated suspension system.